The "Mothers and Preborns Act" aims to enhance support for parents during pregnancy and infancy by establishing the Healthy Mother and Healthy Newborn Ombudsman Office within the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. This office will be responsible for maintaining records of state programs that assist parents, referring them to appropriate services, acting as a liaison, and addressing complaints related to these programs. The ombudsman will also produce informational materials, including a brochure detailing available services, which must be distributed to obstetricians and made accessible at county health offices and online.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 44-41-340 of the South Carolina Code to include the brochure or written materials from the new ombudsman office as part of the information provided to pregnant women prior to an abortion. This section outlines various materials that the Department of Public Health and Environmental Control must publish, including information on available assistance, abortion procedures, and prenatal care benefits. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 44-37-80, 44-41-340
Latest Version: 44-37-80, 44-41-340